When deciding what house chores are suitable for your children, there are a few things to take into perspective. First, how old is your child? Obviously, a three year old doing the dishes is not going to work to well. Or a twelve-year-old just picking up toys is getting away a little too easily. Next, what do you trust your child to do? Do you trust your ten year old with knives? If not, you probably don’t want him to do the dishes either. And finally, what does your child like to do? If your child likes to use spray bottles, it might be a good idea to let him wash the windows in the house, or if he likes vacuuming, but is a little too young, let him use the dust buster. These are a few things to think about before giving out chores to the children in your house.
It is ideal to start letting your child help you with household chores when they are young. If your two-year-old is showing interest in helping out, give him a dry rag and a spray bottle full of water, and let him help you wash the coffee table. Maybe buy him a toy vacuum or mop, to let him get used to the idea of cleaning. Praise your young child often, and let him know you appreciate his help. This will make it easier for you to give him chores as your child gets older.
Your three or four-year-old may be a little more help than your two-year-old. Your young toddler should be able to pick up his own toys in his room, and maybe help you put groceries away. He may also be old enough to start taking responsibility of a pet, with the help of an adult. Your toddler may be able to feed or water your pet and maybe take care of some grooming also.
Your five, six, or seven year old can take on a few more chores than a toddler can. At this age, you may want to think about making a list of chores for your child, and posting it on the refrigerator or wall, so your child can be reminded without you telling him. A few good chores for a child in this age range are making the bed, setting the table, clearing off the table after dinner, dusting in his room, and making sure his dirty laundry is put in a hamper or basket. It is best to give your little helper only a few chores, so that he doesn’t get overwhelmed. At this age, your child will most likely have homework and after school activities.
You can assign your eight, nine or ten year old outside or inside chores. If you trust your child alone outside for a few moments, you may decide that one of his chores will be to take out the trash daily. You may also want your child to check your mail for you when he gets home from school. You can start letting your child use window cleaner to help you clean mirrors and glass around the house. Another good chore for a child this age may be sweeping or dust-busting around the house. Your child is also probably at the age where you can expect him to keep his room clean without reminding him constantly.
With an eleven, twelve or thirteen year old, you can start assigning him different rooms to clean. Maybe you want the hall closet organized, or some old magazines gone through. These are things that your young preteen can help you with. At this age, they are better at making decisions and more confident also. Your preteen should be able to vacuum without assistance, and take care of the dishes also. They are almost at the age that you can rely on them to help you out with just about any house hold chores. Remember to talk to your children about the dangers of different cleaning products. This will make household cleaning safer. Remember that it is always best to praise your child for a job well done. They will be willing to help you out without a fight if they feel respected and valued. You may also want to try giving rewards for a completed chore. This will surely motivate your children to help you around the house!
